1. Make the dough:
In a big bowl, mix the sugar with the warm water until it dissolves. Sprinkle the dry yeast on top and wait for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and active.
Add the salt and oil, then slowly mix in 3 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough starts to come together.
Gradually mix in the last 3 cups of flour, adding one cup at a time. Knead the dough in the bowl until it becomes stretchy. The dough should be soft and a little sticky, but not too sticky.
2. Work the dough by pressing and folding it.
Place the dough on a surface with a little flour and knead it for 8-10 minutes. This process is very important for creating the gluten, which is what gives the bread its texture and chewiness.
If the dough is too sticky, put in a bit more flour. But be cautious not to add too much, as it could make the bread heavy.
First Increase:
Put the dough in a bowl with oil, turning it once to cover the top with oil. Place a clean cloth or plastic wrap over the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Form the bread loaves into the desired shape.
After the dough has grown in size, press it gently to let the air out. Split the dough into two equal parts.
Form each part into a loaf shape and put them in two greased 9x5-inch loaf pans. Place a cloth or plastic wrap over the pans and allow the dough to rise for 30-45 minutes, or until it reaches about 1 inch above the edges of the pans.
Make the bread in the oven.
Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before using it. Cook the bread for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
If the top of the bread gets too brown too fast, cover it with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
6. Chill and Serve:
Take the bread out of the oven and allow it to cool in the pans for around 10 minutes before moving it to a wire rack to cool down completely.
This bread tastes best when eaten right away, with butter, jam, or used to make your favorite sandwiches.
Amish White Bread is not just a recipe; it represents the comfort and heritage of home. Its smooth and fluffy consistency and gentle sweetness make it a popular choice for people of all ages. It can be enjoyed in many different ways due to its flexibility. Whether you have baked a lot before or are just beginning, making this bread is a pleasure and it's even more enjoyable to eat. Enjoy the joy of baking your own bread, fresh and warm from the oven, and pass on this cherished recipe to your loved ones!
